Plans underway for Memorial Day Parade

ONEIDA, N.Y.>> Preparations are being finalized for the Oneida Memorial Day Parade as Friday, May 26 draws near.

With marching set to kick off at 6:30 p.m. at Triangle Park, the Oneida Memorial Association is excited to continue a tradition born in 1883 when Oneida hosted its first Memorial Day Parade.

This year’s theme is “Oneida’s Tribute to our Veteran Heroes.”

Floats will be judged in the following categories: veterans color guard, fire department color guard, youth performance, adult performance, and antique cars. The parade will also include military vehicles.

Additionally, Honest Abe Lincoln will be riding and walking throughout the parade, greeting and interacting with viewers.

A rendition of “Taps” is included in this year’ plans, as well as a special park service scheduled for 5:30 p.m. prior to the parade in which those wishing to honor a veteran with a flower will have the opportunity to do so.

Family members and/or descendants and friends of the war deceased whose names are read every year at Roll Call are invited to participate in the placing of flowers at the monument during the service.

In order to put on the best parade possible, the association is looking for more public assistance.

“The financing of marching bands and other expenses for the parade always depends on donations received from the community,” said OneidaMemorial Association President Lees Manwarren. “Therefore, donations are needed to help pay for them. Every dollar counts.”

Currently, the association has nearly 40 percent of the target $7,000 for the parade. Last year, the Oneida Memorial Association had one its biggest parades ever and looks to build fromthat momentum.

“The streets were lined,” said OMA’s Nancy Ginter.

The Oneida Memorial Association took over parade organization in 1938, a legacy they have continued since. Donations can be mailed to the Oneida Memorial Association, P.O. Box 93, Oneida, NY 13421.

Those who wish to place the flowers to honor their loved ones are asked to contact the Oneida Memorial Association at P.O. Box 93 Oneida New York 13421 before May 16, or attend the Oneida Memorial Association meeting on Tuesday, May 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the Oneida Recreation Center.